Cincinnati Bengals middle linebacker Rey Maualuga (58) lies injured on the turf during the second quarter of their game against the New York Jets.

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Sitting on a cart, waiting to be wheeled away from their Sunday sanctuary, NFL players must immediately fight an onslaught of fearful thoughts. Viewed as warriors, they risk body, mind and possible future health to battle in a game they not only love, but one capable of setting themselves and their families for life.

In that lonely moment, they must face the possibility the game could be taken away.

"It's a scary position to be in being carted off the field," Bengals linebacker Rey Maualuga said. ...